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"Like the secret service isn't it". People with learning difficulties', perceptions of staff and services: mystification and disempowerment
- Author:
- GOBLE Colin
- Journal article citation:
- Disability and Society, 14(4), July 1999, pp.449-461.
- Publisher:
- Taylor and Francis
Seven people with learning difficulties were interviewed about their perceptions of staff in services they use. Three major themes emerged, which were perceptions relating to the physical presence and absence of staff; the emotional impact of interactions with staff; and the political impact of interactions with staff. It was found that the participants had only superficial knowledge of staff identities and roles, and of service systems and structures, and consequently lack the knowledge and awareness necessary to negotiate what these roles might be, or even that negotiation might be possible. The findings are discussed in relation to a developmental model of empowerment, and empowerment issues generally.